In this edition of the ATAM, Mike discusses the opening of contract negotiations, and yet another open time record that has been shattered.
Wow... What dedication that Communications Chairman guy has! He's giving his union 15 minutes (if we pretend that that's all it takes to record and edit a podcast) while on vacation in London. Huzzah!
Live from the Oxford Circle, Mike announces that the new forums are in beta testing and should be up as soon as the moderators are selected. The Mole also checks in about the pseudo staffing boost, and we have an Epic Captain Line Check Fail.
Next time you see Mike, tell him thanks for putting down his warm ale and fish n' chips to record the ATAM.
On today's ATAM, Mike talks about how the union's solidarity drive is going around the company; and the rest of Local 1224. It seems that this is also having an effect on the company and the mail they are sending to our homes. The Mole has an interesting perspective on the intention of the COO's infamous letter. Finally, Mike gives some contract pointers on when we are contactable by the company. Oh.. and there is a absolutely Holy Epic Fail.
Welcome to the 14th ATAM of 2015!
Since the ATAM began in January, we have seen over 11,300 downloads. These are great numbers and we are glad everyone has been more engaged in our new communications efforts. Please comtinue to listen going forward, and spread the word to all of our new crewmembers and any old timers who haven't gotten the word.
In this ATAM we continue to disucss the staffing issues the company faces. We point out that the union has stood at the ready to assist in attracting more qualified candidates and retain those already here — still waiting.
We also take a turn for the ATAM and talk a little about work/life balance. We have to take care of ourselves by maintaining fitness, getting sleep, and spending time with our families and friends — all while keeping up with the rigors of a job at Atlas Air. For those of us who actually experience the glorious season of Winter at home (i.e. not the Comms Chair), tis the season to enjoy the sun and soak up some Vitamin D.
As usual, we will hear from the Mole, a Socal Epic Fail, and maybe a little career news for 767 First Officers.
Please enjoy the beautiful weather, and fly safe!
-- Comms Committee
As the summer rolls on, we bring you the 13th ATAM of 2015.
Today we discuss the math and economics of the vacation buyback offers and the very important "All In" movement being undertaken by all 1224 airlines flying in the service of DHL.
Of course you get your dose of the Mole and an abbreviated, but completely Epic, Fail.
We would like to especially emphasize contract and FAR regulatory compliance during this high-tempo operational environment. When the company has its back against the wall, it is willing to be very creative with the CBA, your health, sleep pattern, and regulartory compliance.
Be vigilent, protect your crew, and fly safe!
-- Comms Committee
On today's ATAM, live from the Anchorage Marriott, Mike focuses on the busy summer season here at Atlas and the new vacation MOU.
The Vacation MOU takes affect on July 1st, so we take come time to explain the finer points of the agreement. If you have any questions on how the MOU works, please don't hesitate to call the Union Scheduling or Steward committees.
Mike also runs over the math on the new Delta TA and how something that seems so great actually falls far short of what that pilot group deserves.
Lastly, we have another interview with the Company Mole and an Epic Failure of domestic deadheading.
Thanks for listening to the ATAM, and fly safe!
-- Comms Committee
Today we are proud to share our first sponsored ATAM broadcast. The proceeds from these ad sales will be used to provide singing lessons and more sound effect machines for the Communications Committee.
Additionally, we discuss the growing staffing issues in the summer months, and the leverage this creates for the union. The also mole returns for another update from Purchase, and we share another Epic Fail.. Madrid Style.
And finally, we hear your comments about the format of the ATAM. People want to hear positive things about their employer. Well today, we are giving praise where praise is due. Today we highlight some of the recent successes and improvements made by Atlas Air management.
Fly safe and don't fly fatigued!
-- Comms Committee
In this ATAM we discuss the prolific amount of backsliding done by the Company on their recent agreements when it comes to Catering, Travel Arrangements and hiring enough people to keep the airline running smoothly. The Mole makes another appearance to let us in on the behind the scenes problems plaguing Atlas Management. All this and music too...your critiques have been heard loud and clear! Enjoy!
#ATAM 5/15/15
Today, we present a softer side of the ATAM -- Paul Harvey style.
Mike discusses the improvements that have been made so far this year due to your dedication to enforcing the contract and being more involved in the union. In the last 120 days, the union has been able to secure agreements that improve every pilot's quality of life in the areas of vacation, training, and management displacements. The full texts of these agreements can be found on the Giant Comms Facebook page, or on the Atlas 1224 website. Additionally, grievances for Polar pilots dating back to 2003 have been settled with positive results thanks to the continued dedication of your union representatives.
We also cover some of the feedback we've received on the ATAM since it began. Some pilots prefer and more "NPR Style" broadcast, and this episode is dedicated to them.
Finally, last weekend Bob Kirchner attended the Teamster Unity Conference and 1224 E-board meeting in Las Vegas. Bob was able to meet with Dave Bourne and receive a full commitment of support from IBT National and the entire Airline Division.
Thank you all for your commitment to the pilot group. Great things are ahead as long as we continue to hold the line.
Fly SAFE!
-- Comms Committee
ATAM 4.30.15
More than the weather is starting to heat up as we approach the summer busy period.
Today, Mike once again hears from the Company Mole regarding pilot retention and that persistent line item for the company — training costs.
Additionally, we have another reading from the Book of Epic Fail. Mike reads a very well written FCR filed by a crew member highlighting a "Maddening company failure" that includes a lack of transportation on both ends of a charter flight and improper documentation for Customs officials. The crew member said it best: "How long have we been in business"?
We also shine a light on our over-worked and over-abused 767 fleet. How many will be lured to a purple tail in Western Tennessee?
Finally, we would like to remind everyone that the assessment ballots should be arriving at your home. All ballots must be received in Wilmington by Noon on May 26. Any questions about the ballot process should be directed to Jenna Sheely at (937) 635-9585 or toll-free (877) 658-1224.
Thanks for listenting, and please FLY SAFE!
-- Comms Committee
This version of the ATAM brings important information on the mail-in vote for the assessment. Ballots will be distributed shortly and voting will close on May 26th at Noon EDT. Anyone with questions regarding the ballot procedure should contact Jenna Sheely at Local 1224. (937) 655-9585 or toll-free (877) 658-1224.
This ATAM is also packed with two new segments. First, Mike gets an update from a mole inside company headquarters regarding the attitude in Purchase towards the union and the recently concluded review by Princeton University. We are also happy to bring you a pilot retention update that includes a letter from an outgoing crew member.
Of course, no ATAM would be complete without "Epic Fail"! And this one is a doozy...
Thanks for listening, and fly safe!
Anyone else feel like this paycheck is a bad April Fool's joke? #ATAM brings advice on how to make it better!
Live from his favorite hovel in South Korea, Mike talks specifics about the assessment. How did the ExCo come up with the amount of money needed? What will happen to any money left over? All those questions are answered in this week's ATAM. Plus, we include advice for the company on how NOT to process a visa.
Full archive of the March 16th, 2015 ExCo conference call.
As Spring approaches, Mike Griffith discusses the lack of progress in AQP and trip trading, aggressive hiring with no retention, and the Management Flying LOA.
Of course, "Epic Fail" and "Walking the Line" return for your listening pleasure.
Please be on the lookout for future communication regarding the assessment survey. Participation in this survey is most important as we all move toward Secion 6 negotiations.
Mike Griffith comes to you live from the road in Incheon, South Korea for ATAM #4.
Today, we discuss social media and how respect is earned and used.
A new segment, "Walking the Line", is also introuduced; and it features a new cast member — YOU. If you happen to see or fly with Mike, you could be on the next ATAM, so have your questions and thoughts ready!
Finally, the ATAM closes with "Epic Fail: The Hitchhiker's Guide to Shanghai Edition"
We hope you enjoy the ATAM, and please share it with your fellow crewmembers on Twitter, Facebook, or your friendly neighborhood Atlas cockpit.
- Comms Committee
During this call, ExCo members Bob Kirchner, Pat Petersen and Jeff Canter took questions from crew members covering a wide range of topics.
There were some audio and connectivity issues mid-way through the call, we apologize for those problems.
After you listen to the call, please share with you fellow crewmembers where you found it!
- Comms Committee
In the mid-February ATAM, topics include:
Thanks for listening to the ATAM! As always, help spread the word about this and other new communications while you are out flying the line.
-- Comms Committee